Is hand numbness in pregnancy a cause for concern?

Causes of hand numbness in pregnancy

Usually numbness in the hands is caused by damage to the central or peripheral nervous system. Pressure on the nerve can also cause them. Another cause is degenerative changes in the spine, especially the cervical or thoracic spine. Numbness is also felt when one remains in an unnatural position for a long time, such as with arms raised or stretched out in front of one’s body. Mothers-to-be often complain about this ailment. One of the more common causes is carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is usually caused by repetitive hand movements associated with work, for example. Even working at a computer and typing for hours every day can cause this affliction. People who play sports are also prone to paresthesias, as they are more likely to suffer injuries to their upper extremities, especially their wrists. In pregnancy, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs much more often from the second trimester onward, because during this time a woman’s body begins to retain water. Unlike an affliction that is the result of an injury or occupational disease, unpleasant symptoms usually subside after childbirth.

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    Hand numbness in pregnancy vs. carpal tunnel syndrome

The carpal tunnel is actually a canal made up of the bones of the wrist. This narrow and inflexible structure houses the median nerve. It is its compression that causes the aforementioned numbness in the hand during pregnancy. The causes of the symptoms are swelling and pressure caused by retained fluids. In the initial stages, the ailment just manifests itself as numbness and tickling, but as the pressure on the nerve persists or increases, a burning sensation and even a dull ache can appear, spreading to the fingers, wrist, and in advanced cases can even radiate to the arm.

    Other causes of hand numbness in pregnancy at night

Carpal tunnel syndrome is not the only cause of discomfort that mothers-to-be complain about. Hand numbness is also sometimes a consequence of spinal overload. A woman’s body begins to prepare for childbirth, but also for feeding a toddler. Ladies gain weight, their breasts grow, as a result, the spine has to carry more weight and the center of gravity shifts. There is increased tension in the chest area, which can cause tingling and pain in the hands.

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Sometimes numbness in the hands is especially troublesome at night. Sometimes it prevents effective rest. Then the cause is the position that many pregnant women adopt – with their wrists folded under themselves. They are then often awakened by an unpleasant tingling in their hands and feel pain when changing positions. For people who find it very difficult to control this habit, it is recommended to wear a wrist orthosis at night. The ailment should not be underestimated, as any disorder of the wrist can result in the aforementioned carpal tunnel syndrome, which if left untreated can lead to permanent nerve damage.

    Home remedies for hand numbness in pregnancy

If unpleasant symptoms persist or worsen, it is necessary to consult a specialist. It is also a good idea to avoid movements or adopting hand positions in which they aggravate. For those who are unable to eliminate certain activities or do not control their sleeping position, wrist protectors will work well. Many also turn to supplements, but moms-to-be should consult a specialist about this.

Pregnant women need to pay attention to diet

and proper hydration. It is advisable to eat a menu that will not aggravate fluid retention in the body. Massages and warm baths to improve blood circulation will also provide relief. However, be sure that the water is not too hot. It is also not advisable to cool down the body, as the numbness may then worsen. In many cases, relaxation techniques, especially yoga, which teaches you to control your body, provide relief.